Senate Bill No. 1213, also known as Public Act No. 25-60, introduces several revisions to existing statutes related to children, effective July 1, 2025. Key changes include the requirement for the council to hold meetings at public-friendly locations and to post agendas and minutes on the department's Internet website. The bill also clarifies that individuals aggrieved by violations of specific subsections can seek judicial relief. Additionally, it modifies the licensure requirements for relative or fictive kin caregivers accepting child placements, allowing for case-by-case waivers of certain regulations while ensuring that safety standards remain intact.

Further amendments include the commissioner being designated as the guardian for children or youth under certain conditions, with updated notification requirements for placements and changes in care. The bill also emphasizes the importance of considering the child's best interests during placements, including the need for written notifications to attorneys or guardians ad litem. Other provisions address interstate placements and the necessity for courts to document compliance with relevant laws. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the welfare and legal protections for children and youth in the care system.